Open Day 29 April 2023
Another very good turn out for our Open Day. The message had certainly got out that Dorking Bowling Club is the one to welcome you - if you want to learn lawn bowls and have fun in lovely surroundings. Well done to the hard work of Ray and the recruitment team.
Again lucky with the weather. The very large team of volunteers arrived early to set up the equipment and the Clubhouse in anticipation of a busy morning. We were rewarded with bacon/sausgae sandwiches and a cuppa (thank you again Marian and Pat) before last instructions and we were off to our allocated positions (car park, meet & greet, registration, hosting, coaching, bowl collection .......) - a well drilled team.
We needed all six rinks so that we could give the appropriate attention to the new bowlers in small groups of two. There was a steady stream of eager people arriving over the morning .... some even came early such was the enthusiasm. The system worked well with our qualified coaches overseeing the introduction to the basics of bowling and then allowing what people really wanted .... having a go. For first timers, they all picked up the idea very well and we were soon hearing cheers when they actually got close to the jack. It was nice to see many couples also trying - this is a sociable sport and one where you can have shared experiences.
After learning the basics, it was back into the Clubhouse to have a cuppa (or even a drink as the bar was now open) and chat a bit more with our volunteers about what goes on at the club throughout the year. Where did the morning go as it was soon time to pack up. We did get some who arrived just before 12 - but we managed to fit them in for a 30 min session.
At the last count there were 22 who came along. All have said that they would also come to the more in-depth free training sessions that we are holding on Monday evenings this May. We also had some others contact us to say that they couldn't make the Open Day but could they attend the training please.
